Jacksons International Airport, Port Moresby's Gateway

Jacksons International Airport (POM), also known as Port Moresby International Airport, serves Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, and is the country's main link to the outside world. Most international visitors to Papua New Guinea arrive here before flying on to the highlands, the islands or the coast.

The airport takes its name from John Francis Jackson, an Australian fighter pilot killed in 1942 during the Second World War campaign in New Guinea. It is owned and operated by the National Airports Corporation.

Location and Distance to Port Moresby

The airport lies about 8 km from central Port Moresby. Depending on traffic, the drive into town, to the Waigani government district or to the waterfront usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Terminals and Facilities at Jacksons International

POM has two terminals: a Domestic Terminal and an International Terminal. They sit next to each other and are joined by a covered walkway, which makes connecting between an international arrival and a domestic flight fairly straightforward. The International Terminal has aerobridges, and the domestic side offers food outlets and car parking.

Airlines Flying from Port Moresby

Air Niugini, the national airline, and PNG Air both use Port Moresby as their main hub. Between them they reach dozens of towns across Papua New Guinea, many of which have no road link to the capital. Air Niugini also flies internationally, and Qantas is among the foreign carriers serving the airport. Routes and frequencies change, so check the current schedule for your dates.

Getting from the Airport into Port Moresby

• Hotel transfers: most larger hotels run airport shuttles, and many visitors book one in advance.
• Taxis and hire cars: available at the terminals, with car rental desks for those who plan to drive.
• Pre-arranged pickup: often recommended for first-time visitors, since public buses (PMVs) can be crowded and hard to navigate.

What to See in Port Moresby

Port Moresby is a good introduction to the country's culture. The National Museum and Art Gallery holds carvings and artefacts from many regions. Parliament House is built in the style of a traditional haus tambaran (spirit house), and the Port Moresby Nature Park showcases birds of paradise and tree kangaroos. Ela Beach sits close to the city centre, and hikers use the city as the starting point for the Kokoda Track.

Travel Tips for Jacksons International Airport

Domestic flights in Papua New Guinea can be affected by weather and schedule changes, so leave a buffer when connecting to or from an international flight. Keep valuables close and arrange onward transport before you land. Check visa and entry requirements well ahead of travel.

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